A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hoi An vs. Yokohama for Food, Families, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Hoi An or Yokohama?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Hoi An and Yokohama. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a traditional, quaint, and peaceful town. Hoi An is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Hoi An travel costs.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a diverse, bright, and colorful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Yokohama travel costs.

Hoi An and Yokohama: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hoi An or Yokohama?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yokohama. Although Hoi An and Yokohama are both popular with visitors, Yokohama has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Yokohama is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Hoi An is known for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Hoi An is more touristy than Yokohama and is popular for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. Yokohama is popular for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night. It is also home to the Yokohama Chinatown.

How is Hoi An different from Yokohama?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yokohama and Hoi An. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hoi An or Yokohama?

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Hoi An or Yokohama.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hoi An. The old town is like a living museum. It's pedestrian-friendly and filled with beautiful yellow buildings. Highlights of the town include the Phung Hung House, Fukian Assembly Hall, and the Hoi An Museum.

Yokohama offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

Is the Food Better in Hoi An or Yokohama? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hoi An is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Hoi An is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The local cuisine is truly unique from the rest of Vietnam. It's considered to be a culinary city with interesting recipes that depend on local ingredients that can't be found outside of the region. Specialty dishes of the city include Cao Lầu (pork and rice noodles), Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (white rose dumplings), and Cơm Gà Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice).

Yokohama has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Is Hoi An or Yokohama Better for Nightlife?

Yokohama is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. However, Hoi An is lacking in options for nightlife and partying.

Yokohama has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Hoi An is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's definitely not your typical backpacker party town, and the city is quietly beautiful in the evening. Many of the bars in the old town close before midnight, but there are some places outside of the area if you're looking for something more lively.

Is Hoi An or Yokohama Better for Beaches?

Hoi An is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Yokohama is not a beach destination.

Hoi An has a beach worth visiting. There is a long stretch of sandy beach in the area, that can be broken into five different sections. Some areas are privately owned, but there is still plenty of public beach to choose from. An Bang Beach is the most developed and popular beach in the area. Coconut Beach is the most luxurious, and Ha My Beach is similar to An Bang, but smaller.

Yokohama is not a beach destination.

Is Hoi An or Yokohama Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is terrific for its historic old town. However, Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Hoi An has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The charming old town is recognizable for its striking yellow color and its many tailor shops. It feels like a living museum, and the evening hours are particularly special with the town's lanterns lighting the way.

Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hoi An or Yokohama?

Hoi An is terrific for shopping. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Hoi An is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. It is considered to be one of the best and most affordable cities in the world for tailor made clothing. Pop in a shop and have your measurements made. You can pick out a design and in a day or two return for your custom made outfit. It's a truly unique shopping experience.

Yokohama is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

Is Hoi An or Yokohama More Beautiful?

Hoi An is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Yokohama is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hoi An is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is beautiful during the day with its traditional architecture, as well as at night when it is lit with lanterns.

Yokohama is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hoi An or Yokohama Better for Families?

Yokohama is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Yokohama is very family-friendly. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

Hoi An is a very kid-friendly town. Kids will appreciate the thrill of a visit to Ba Na Hills, which is a theme park with roller coasters, zip lines, and more. Near the city you'll also find ancient ruins, outdoor activities, hands-on classes, and, of course, the impressive old town.

Is Hoi An or Yokohama Better for Couples?

Hoi An and Yokohama both great destinations for a couple.

Hoi An makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This charming city has a lot of character and some of Vietnam's best restaurants. The city is also known for its tailor made clothes, so make sure you do some shopping while you're in town.

Couples visit Yokohama frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

Is Hoi An or Yokohama Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An is terrific for backpackers. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hoi An is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

Yokohama is a good town to visit for backpackers. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Is Hoi An or Yokohama Better for Students?

Yokohama is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Hoi An is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

Hoi An is not popular with students.

Is Hoi An or Yokohama Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Yokohama is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Yokohama is fairly effecient and thorough. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

You'll find some public transit in Hoi An, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Biking, taxis, and motorbikes are the most popular ways to explore the area.

Is Hoi An or Yokohama a more walkable city?

Hoi An is terrific for its walkability. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Hoi An on foot is easy. There are "walking hours" when motorized vehicles aren't allowed in the old town, and this is a particularly good time to explore on foot.

Yokohama is a very walkable town. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

For even more information, also check out Is Hoi An Worth Visiting? and Is Yokohama Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yokohama or Hoi An?

How long in Hoi An or Yokohama?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hoi An or Yokohama to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hoi An than Yokohama because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hoi An, and 1-2 days is enough time in Yokohama.

Couples should spend more time in Hoi An than Yokohama. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hoi An that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hoi An than Yokohama if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Hoi An.

One day in Hoi An or Yokohama?

The beautiful town of Hoi An offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Yokohama is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Hoi An or Yokohama?

Hoi An is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hoi An, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Yokohama is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Hoi An or Yokohama?

Hoi An is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yokohama. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Hoi An or Yokohama?

Hoi An is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse big city of Yokohama. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Vietnam, The Best Historical Tours in Vietnam, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hoi An and Yokohama, we can see that Yokohama is more expensive. And not only is Hoi An much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hoi An would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hoi An and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Yokohama would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yokohama than you might in Hoi An.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hoi An Expensive? and Is Yokohama Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hoi An or Yokohama?

Yokohama has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Hoi An. When comparing the sizes of Hoi An and Yokohama, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Hoi An or Yokohama?

Yokohama has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hoi An experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hoi An or Yokohama in the Summer?

Both Yokohama and Hoi An during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hoi An because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Yokohama for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Hoi An is a little warmer than Yokohama in the summer. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Yokohama fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Hoi An. In the summer, Hoi An often gets more sunshine than Yokohama. Hoi An gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yokohama receives 137 hours of full sun.

Yokohama gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hoi An usually gets less rain in July than Yokohama. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year. February to July is the dry season in Hoi An. September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An.

Should I visit Hoi An or Yokohama in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hoi An and Yokohama. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Hoi An is a little warmer than Yokohama. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hoi An in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Yokohama averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Hoi An usually receives more sunshine than Yokohama during autumn. Hoi An gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Yokohama receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Yokohama receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hoi An gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Yokohama. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hoi An or Yokohama in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hoi An as well as Yokohama. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year.

In January, Hoi An is generally much warmer than Yokohama. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 22°C (71°F), and Yokohama fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Hoi An often gets less sunshine than Yokohama. Hoi An gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yokohama receives 175 hours of full sun.

Hoi An receives a lot of rain in the winter. Hoi An usually gets more rain in January than Yokohama. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. September to January in Hoi An is the rainy season.

Should I visit Hoi An or Yokohama in the Spring?

Both Yokohama and Hoi An are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hoi An throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Yokohama for the activities around the city.

Hoi An is much warmer than Yokohama in the spring. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Yokohama fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hoi An. Hoi An usually receives more sunshine than Yokohama during spring. Hoi An gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Yokohama receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yokohama. In April, Hoi An usually receives less rain than Yokohama. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Yokohama and Hoi An